Wildfires in Oregon and the West routinely force evacuations, threatening human life and homes. Now, the Department of Land Conservation and Development has made new draft recommendations for how communities can respond to these increasing threats, including mitigation measures for new developments. The DLCD has also released new draft recommendations for how to address housing needs. The public comment period for the wildfire recommendations is now open. The housing comment period opens Wednesday. The agency will be presenting final recommendations to Oregon lawmakers in the fall. Brenda Ortigoza Bateman directs the Department of Land Conservation and Development. We talk with her about responding to wildfire risks, the housing crisis and the department’s priorities more broadly as the 50th anniversary of the state’s land use system approaches.